How many picas are in an inch?

In desktop publishing (PostScript), 1 inch = 6 picas = 72 points.

What is the difference between PostScript and traditional/ATA points?

PostScript uses exactly 72 pt per inch. Traditional printers sometimes used 72.27 pt per inch, which makes the pica very slightly larger. Our tool supports both.

Can I convert picas back to inches?

Yes. Type your value in the picas box and the inches field will update immediately using the same point/pica system you selected.

Inches to Picas Converter (in ⇄ picas ⇄ points)

Quick table (PostScript)

Inches	Picas	Points	Notes
0.25 in	1.5 picas	18 pt	Quarter inch
0.5 in	3 picas	36 pt	Half inch
1 in	6 picas	72 pt	Standard
2 in	12 picas	144 pt	Double
8.5 in	51 picas	612 pt	Letter width

Formulas

PostScript / DTP:

1 in = 72 pt

1 pica = 12 pt

So: 1 in = 72 ÷ 12 = 6 picas

picas = inches × 6

points = inches × 72

PostScript vs ATA (traditional)

Older US printing sometimes used 1 in = 72.27 pt (the “American Type Founders” point). If you have an old layout or a book that specifies 12 picas = 72.27 pt, pick the second option — it will give you slightly different pica/point values.

FAQ

1. Do web and CSS use picas?

Not commonly. Web layouts usually use px, rem, em, or occasionally pt. Picas/points are still common in InDesign, Illustrator, and print production.

2. Can I convert 8.5 × 11 in (Letter) to picas?

Yes: 8.5 in × 6 = 51 picas wide; 11 in × 6 = 66 picas tall (PostScript system).

3. Which one should I choose if I’m unsure?

Choose “PostScript / DTP.” It’s what modern layout software uses, and it’s the one most online converters expect.